Justified: Season 1

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Television networks have the habit of trying to blend popular genres that
typically exhibit uneven results. The reason for so many failures is simply;
insufficient consideration of the essence that defines the component genres and
how best to juxtapose them in such a fashion as to compliment and reinforce each
other. If this is done correctly the results can be awesome, verging on
establishing a new type of program. While historically this is exceedingly rare
it does happen and fortunately there is an example currently being broadcast;
‘Justified’. The producers’ set out to create a mélange of two of the most
venerable, enduring and popular types of television series in history, the
western and the procedural crime drama. It might seem to be a natural fit but
the lamentable fact is the majority of attempts have regrettably missed the
mark. Fortunately this is not the case with the series under review here.
‘Justified’ is the rare show that combines genres synergistically; forming
something that has the comfort of familiarity with excitement of something
unique. Through tight direction, formidable writing and excellent casting this
series takes all the elements of the traditionally 19th century old
west lawman plucking him up only to transporting him into the modern world. This
migration of setting is tricky but in this specific instance was handled with
unprecedented expertise. The series was greatly aided by the network hosting it,
‘F/X’. This basic cable network enjoys greater latitude from the FCC permitting
the exploration of more adult themes presented in a gritty manner. This goes
beyond the obvious use of mature language to the implementation of explicit
subject matter. The ‘F/X’ network also has a proven track record with cutting
edge alternative crime dramas evident by such successful shows as ‘The Shield’
and ‘Sons of Anarchy’. While their programs demonstrate greater restraint than
possible on the premium networks their shows tend towards a degree of intensity
not permissible on the traditional broadcast channels. This translates to a
series that is definitely not a modernization of a family friendly western crime
series like ‘Gunsmoke’. Admittedly I missed this series during its initial
broadcast but thanks to Amazon Video on Demand I was able to catch up and become
an instant fan.

Deputy U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens (Timothy Olyphant) works for the Miami
office of the Marshall Service. That is until he shoots a man dead while sitting
with him in a crowded restaurant. It seemed fair, at lease to Raylan since the
man was a felon and he did give him 24 hours to leave town. The internal
investigation declared the shooting ‘Justified’ but Raylan’s superiors cannot
afford to let him remain in Miami. The only choice given to him is to return to
his home town in Kentucky, something Raylan is not ecstatic about but it does
let him keep his badge. The necessary exposition is doled out slowly but with
exceptional care. Raylan has history with many denizens of the area especially
Ava Crowder (Joelle Carter) who had a crush on him since she was twelve and hid
friend from when he worked digging coal, Boyd Crowder (Walton Goggins). Neither
one turned out particularly well. Ava shot and killed her abusive husband and
Boyd is a white supremacist with a perchance for gunplay and explosions. In the
pilot episode Raylan shoots him in the chest but Boyd survives to be a recurring
frienmy. There seems to be a catch phrase that quickly manifested in the show;
the perpetrator challenges Raylan’s speed and accuracy with his sidearm asking
‘do you think you can pull before I blow you head off?’ The reply is unspoken
but aptly demonstrated as the lawman draws with blinding speed. He manifests a
simple, old west philosophy concerning the use of his weapon. If he pulls his
gun out of its holster he aims to kill what he is shooting at. This has a
pronounced effect on his adversaries but is ill received by the bosses.

This attitude towards the use of deadly force is only the tip of his
personality. Raylan is anachronistic, a man displaced in time. Not only are his
attitudes concerning shooting better suited for an old West Marshal his code of
personal conduct and moral compass is more at home in Tombstone than Lexington,
Kentucky. He is a man of his word. If he says he will shoot you on sight after
twenty four hours believe it and get out of town fast. This steadfast conviction
to his word and upholding the spirit of the law defines him. For those familiar
with Olyphant’s last series, ‘Deadwood’, imagine Seth Bullock teleported to our
time. To Raylan his job is devoid of shades of grays, he brings bad guys in dead
or alive. In most cases the survival of the criminal is entirely optional. This
unshakable code of honor is what appeals most to the audience. In a world where
the law is seen as corrupt or at lease self serving a man like Raylan is
comforting. He means what he says and his word is an unbreakable contract.
Whatever Raylan promises you can be certain he will deliver; the genius of the
series is in how it avoids descending into a one note premise with the crook of
the week. Every episode builds on its predecessors weaving a study story that
rapidly pulls you in.

The series is tightly written with every scene a piece integral to the way
the story of largest scope unfolds. ‘F/X’ has some of the best writers,
directors and actors available and it shows in the quality of shows like this.
This is something that deserves your attention and a long run on the network.
Few series areas compelling as this one with accuracy that shines brilliantly in
an otherwise dismal landscape. Goggins and Olyphant are at the top of their game
brining a rare intensity to bear here.

"Long Hard Times To Come" Music Video
4 Cast And Crew Commentaries
Season Two: A Look Ahead
What Would Elmore Do?Justified: Meet The Characters
Shooting For Kentucky
The Marshals